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Prescribing

Statin initiation

Common statin starting doses with intensity targets and monitoring reminders.

Last reviewed 2026-01-05|cardio | lipids | medication

Dosing quick reference

Medication (generic)

Atorvastatin

Starting dose

10-20 mg once daily

Typical titration / target

40-80 mg daily for high-intensity

Monitoring / notes

Check baseline ALT; repeat if symptomatic.

Medication (generic)

Rosuvastatin

Starting dose

5-10 mg once daily

Typical titration / target

20-40 mg daily for high-intensity

Monitoring / notes

Use lower start in Asian ancestry or renal impairment.

Medication (generic)

Simvastatin

Starting dose

10-20 mg once daily

Typical titration / target

Max 40 mg daily

Monitoring / notes

Avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and grapefruit.

Monitoring & counseling

  • Recheck lipids 6-12 weeks after initiation or titration.
  • Review muscle symptoms and consider CK if severe.
  • Reinforce lifestyle interventions alongside medication.